Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations at Elmhurst University

This specialized bachelor's degree in Intelligence and Information Operations points toward estimated first-year earnings of $61,299—right at the national median for these programs—paired with an estimated $22,250 in debt. That 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio looks manageable on paper, though the limited number of similar programs nationwide (just 35 schools) means there's less data to draw from when projecting outcomes. The security and intelligence sector can be particular about credentials and clearances, and with only two schools in Illinois offering this degree, it's worth understanding whether Elmhurst's specific program connects students to government contractors or agencies that value this credential.

The concern here isn't the numbers themselves—a debt load under $23,000 for earnings above $61,000 would typically signal solid value. Rather, it's that this highly specialized field may have unique hiring pathways that aren't captured in aggregate data. National security roles often require more than a bachelor's degree alone, and if graduates need additional certifications, clearances, or graduate education to reach those estimated earnings, the investment calculation changes. With Elmhurst serving a significant population of Pell-eligible students (37%), understanding whether the program delivers clear employment pathways without additional costly credentials matters considerably.

Ask the program director for concrete placement data: where do graduates actually work, and what additional requirements did they need beyond the degree? If this program feeds directly into defense contractors or intelligence agencies with strong hiring records, those estimated figures become more credible. Without that pipeline, you're banking on a niche credential with limited comparison points.